CLINTON, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — The Town of Clinton Police Department has welcomed two new officers following a swearing-in ceremony held during Wednesday night’s Town Council meeting.
Officer Oleksiy Kuyan and Officer Lukas Bakerian took the oath of office, administered by Mayor Janice Kovach, in a ceremony attended by family members, fellow officers, friends and community leaders.
Police officials said the additions strengthen the department’s commitment to community policing and public safety.
Kuyan is a U.S. Army veteran who previously served as a police officer with the neighboring Clinton Township Police Department.
Bakerian joins the department after serving as a Special Law Enforcement Officer Class II with the Belmar Police Department. He graduated from the police academy in May 2026 and was named the Top Graduate of his class.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome Officer Kuyan and Officer Bakerian to the Town of Clinton Police family,” said Chief Timothy J. McGuire. “Officer Kuyan’s proven dedication to public service through his military background and prior municipal law enforcement experience makes him an immediate asset to our community. Likewise, Officer Bakerian’s exceptional performance at the academy as Top Graduate demonstrates the high caliber of professionalism and leadership he brings to our town. I am confident both officers will serve our residents with integrity, honor, and professionalism.”
Following the ceremony, both officers began the department’s field training program, where they will receive instruction focused on the Town of Clinton’s policing practices, geography and community-oriented policing standards.
